Asia Bibi Released – But Not Yet Free

Asia Bibi has finally been released from jail a week after being acquitted by Pakistan’s Supreme Court of blasphemy charges.

After eight years in jail, she and her family are now in hiding.

Asia left the jail in Punjab province under heavy security on Wednesday. She was flown to a secure location in Islamabad.

Islamic radicals shut down roads, held up ambulances and burned cars last week after the Court’s decision. The government negotiated with radical Islamist leaders to suspend the violent protests if the Court reviews the decision (which can take years) and Asia is on a “no fly” list so she cannot leave the country.

The Islamists said they had one demand – that Asia be put to death.

They have threatened to kill the Supreme Court justices who acquitted her, overthrow the government, and incite a mutiny in the army.

Asia’s lawyer was flown to the Netherlands and given temporary asylum. Several countries have offered asylum to Asia.

Pakistan’s justices found the so-called witnesses concocted “a feast of falsehood(s)” against Asia.. Their ruling thoroughly refuted the accusations against Asia, and quoted Islamic texts and treaty on Muslims’ obligations to live at peace with Christians.

Despite this, she and all who defended her now live under constant threat from blood-thirsty radicals.